Sukhbir Singh Badal, the president of Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD), has been declared “tankhaiya” — meaning guilty of religious misconduct — by Takht Sri Patna Sahib. This decision came after he repeatedly failed to appear before the Takht despite being summoned multiple times.
The Panj Pyaras (Five Beloved Ones) at Takht Patna Sahib had first called upon Badal on May 21. He was accused of interfering in the Takht’s internal matters and was given 10 days to respond. However, instead of appearing in person, SAD leaders said that their president would follow the directions of the Akal Takht Jathedar (chief priest of the Akal Takht) when it came to religious matters.
Later, Badal cited ill health and asked for more time. In mid-June, the Takht granted him an extension of 20 more days. Despite this, he still did not present himself.
In addition to Badal, Takht Patna Sahib had earlier declared three senior Sikh religious leaders — Giani Kuldeep Singh Gargaj (officiating Jathedar of Akal Takht and Jathedar of Takht Sri Kesgarh Sahib), Baba Tek Singh (Jathedar of Takht Damdama Sahib), and former excommunicated Jathedar Giani Ranjit Singh Gauhar — as “tankhaiya” as well. They were accused of reinstating Gauhar and overstepping their authority by summoning religious officials from Takht Patna Sahib to the Akal Takht.
The developments have triggered tension and debate within the Sikh religious community over the roles and boundaries of different Takhts and their leaders.
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